I met Anthony on April 16, 2019. Matt Calvetti hosted “The Get-Together” in Lawrenceville, which was a unique opportunity for a few local Pittsburgh artists to showcase their musical talents & artistic skills. I was networking and selling fine art throughout the event. Anthony had his table setup next to mine. That’s when I noticed the unique glass jewelry he was selling. I was intrigued to learn more about this type of medium. Each piece was unique and had charm.
Where does your passion for the arts aspire from?
I think my main desire is to cherish and aspire to create beauty in this world, and a legacy that will last longer than myself. I look up to other artists for putting themselves out there in an effort to inspire others and at a base level provide something for us all to look at in wonder and amazement.
When you are instructing glass classes what is one thing that you want to instill in your students?
One of the first things I mention is that it is a very different medium to delve into, and to not become frustrated. Additionally, the way I teach and the way they develop their own techniques for doing the same thing can be completely different, but also work just as well! I try not to bombard students with too much information, and instead I usually do a quick demonstration of the piece they will be making, then walk them through each step again as they are working on that specific portion. I really enjoy sharing my knowledge with those who are inquisitive about the medium.
What types of materials and tools would you recommend using? Why?
Some of the main tools I use on most projects are a standard pair of tweezers, and other specifically glass related ones such as graphite pads, reamers, and of course, special didymium glasses to protect my eyes. These glasses work by cutting through the sodium flare that the glass puts off when heated. In addition, the other main tools are the heat from the torch, and gravity!
Do you have a preference when choosing between functional or decorative? If so, why? Do you have a preference for any type of method?
I usually just go with the flow and make whatever I feel like! It feels better that way and I’m lucky to be able to do so for the most part – as long as I’m not working on any specific commissions or gifts. There are aspects I like of both, and when I’m able to combine them, it is always a pleasure!
What are some challenges you face while creating unique glass pieces?
Some of the main challenges can be the failure rate when trying something new. Even specific items you’ve made before can give you problems – most flame workers deal with cracking of the glass, and it usually happens right at the end! It can be frustrating to devote so much time to a piece, only to have it break. That said, that’s one of the most rewarding aspects is when a piece finally turns out well! Glass is such a unique medium that requires years and countless hours studying and perfecting, and there’s always something to learn. It is truly a metaphor for life in a lot of ways, and I’m humbled to be on this journey.
What is one of your most memorable projects that you have done? Why was it so special to you?
There have been a lot of special ones, and one that specifically stands out was to make a memorial piece for my good friend’s father, who passed away this summer. He was an avid outdoorsman, so I created a fisherman incense holder for my friend to have. I’m was grateful to be able to create something personal for him to remember his father by.
How can one register for a class you are teaching? How can one buy your art? What are your policies for class and purchasing?
These days, who knows when it will be safe to schedule classes again. Apart from teaching at the Pittsburgh Glass Center, I have been fortunate to run small group and individual lessons out of my private studio located in Highland Park. As far as purchasing pieces, I am still working on a website, but in the meantime I usually sell at local art shows around town or through my Instagram page.
For more information on Gima Glass please check out the following link:
https://www.instagram.com/gimaglass/
